Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Chinese Herbs Used For Recovery After A Stroke

Unfortunately strokes are a major concern as we age. A stroke occurs when one or more arteries going to the brain are blocked by a blood clot. The affected brain area begins to break down and as a result, a stroke can lead to disability or death. Chinese tradition has used herbs to not only reverse the effects of a stroke, but also to allow blood flow to move freely to the affected area.


Causes


Chinese medicine believes that there are four factors that can lead to strokes: too much stress, excessive sex, excessive consumption of foods that are unhealthy and excessive work without adequate rest.


Herbs








The Chinese use a whole-body philosophy in treating the sick or disabled. Not only do they prescribe herbs for healing, but diet and spiritual and emotional lifestyles may also be altered to treat the patient. Practitioners of Chinese medicine are very careful as to which herbs are prescribed to the patient. Each stroke is unique and the herbs prescribed must take care of each individual patient. The traditional herbs used in treating a stroke are Zheng Gan Xi Feng Tang, which aids in detoxifying the liver, and Bu Yang Huan Wu Tang. Tian Ma is also helpful because it alleviates some of the side effects of a stroke. For example, Tian Ma improves memory, reduces disorientation and improves language and motor skills. Ginseng is also used because it provides the body with energy and blood flow.


Diet and Exercise


Chinese tradition recommends a diet that is high in fiber and low in fat, sugar and dairy products. Stress must be managed or reduced. Tai chi, yoga and/or meditation are all lifestyle factors built into the Chinese tradition.


Acupuncture


In addition to Chinese herbs used to treat strokes, acupuncture is also recommended. Acupuncture is used to release built-up energy in certain pressure points in the body. When energy blockages are released, life energy can flow freely, which leads to overall health and healing.


Professional Assistance


Chinese medicine is a very effective way of treating a condition because it believes in treating the entire person instead of the condition itself. A practitioner specialized in Chinese medicine might be the best person to deal with when treating a stroke.

Tags: Chinese medicine, Chinese tradition, blood flow, Chinese medicine very, effects stroke, herbs prescribed